Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Carol Cassada is an author of Romance. Her newest work "Westmore" is available from Createspace.

Carol Cassada is an author of Romance. Her newest work "Westmore" is available from Createspace.

What is the name of your latest book? And how did you come up with the title?

The name of the book is Westmore, the name comes from the fictional New England town it’s set in. I was playing around with names, mixing different words and Westmore just came to me.

What is this book about? And what genre is this book in?

It’s mostly a romance book with a soap opera appeal and the first in the series. The book revolves around three families; The Greens, The Braxtons, and The Reynolds. They experience love, heartache, and drama in their everyday lives. Towards the end of the book an accident happens which affects all the families.

Who is/are the main characters? And why did you choose them?

There are many characters in the book, but a few of them are more frontrunners than others. Charlotte is the matriarch of the Green family who vowed never to date again after the death of her husband, but changes her mind when Detective Jim Bryant comes to her rescue.

Scott Green and his sister Alicia front the rock band The Dark Souls. It’s always been Scott’s dream to became a big time musician and just as it looks like his ambitions are about to come true, tragedy strikes.

Andrew Braxton is a ruthless and powerful publishing tycoon who controls his family with an iron fist. Wife Elizabeth is fed up with his behavior and contemplates divorce. Son Wayne is looking to break away from the family business, yet Andrew’s plan to keep his son could end up spelling consequences for others.

Laura Reynolds and her daughter move home after a messy divorce. Once Laura’s happy in her new life, her ex unexpectedly shows up threatening to expose her secret.

What is the coolest or best part about your book? (Any Favorite scenes, the world-building etc..)

One of the things I love about the book is the diversity of the characters. You have the upper class Braxtons all prim and proper, enjoying the luxuries of life. Marie the spunky and down to earth sister-in-law of Andrew. Then there’s Scott and Alicia, a pair of tattooed rocker siblings, with a secret sensitive side. Melissa a young conservative girl, who happens to be Scott’s girlfriend. And Charlotte the caring mother.

Each character has a different personality which readers can relate to and enjoy.

Do you have a favorite character in the book? If so, why?

Two of my favorite characters are Charlotte and her daughter Alicia. Charlotte’s a caring mother who loves her children and tries to do what’s best for them, while looking for love a second time around. I modeled the character after my own mom because all she wants is for her children to be happy and follow their dreams, much like Charlotte.

Alicia is a tough rocker chick, yet readers will see she has a softer side. She’s someone whose afraid to take a chance of love because she’s been hurt in the past. In a lot of ways I consider myself like Alicia because she seems tough, yet she very sensitive and her feelings can easily be hurt, there’s one scene where her brother makes a comment which hurts her feelings and she excuses herself because she doesn’t want them to see her cry.

Is this book part of a series? If so? What can we expect in future books?

This is the first in the series, as I stated earlier an accident happens at the end of the novel and in the sequel all three families are affected and one of the characters faces repercussion for their role in causing the catastrophe.

Plus you can expect more drama and fighting in the Braxton household and the company. More characters coming to town and secrets being revealed. Also lots of romance between various characters.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

Before I published the book I was thinking about changing the ending. On the one hand I wanted to rewrite it and on the other my gut told me not to. So I left the ending just the way it was and I’m pretty happy with the way it turned out.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

One interesting thing I learned is how much of yourself is revealed in the characters. For instance I’ve always wondered what it’d be like to be a rock star and I can have the experience through Scott and Alicia, as I was writing their scenes I could picture myself in their place performing for a live audience.

Another important scene is when Wayne confronts his father about his wrongdoings, Wayne lets him have it. I’m the type of person who stays quiet and doesn’t say anything and I’ve wanted to tell someone off and by writing that scene it helped me unleash anger I’ve had towards people who’ve treated me badly.

Do you have a publisher? And if so, why did you choose them?

This time I chose to go with self-publishing. I wasn’t having any luck with publishers, I kept getting rejected, plus I hated waiting three months to hear a response. I’ve heard about self-publishing before, but didn’t know if it was something I’d be comfortable with. So I did research and made a pros and cons list, after much contemplation I decided to go with Createspace.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I really can’t think of an author whose a mentor, because my writing’s so different.

What books are you reading now?

I like to read paranormal and supernatural books, mostly real life incidents, currently I’m reading Ghostly Lighthouses by Sheryl Monks.

What are the current writing projects that you are working on?

I’m currently working on the sequel to Westmore which I hope to have out by the end of the year. Then after that I’ll start on volume 3. In my spare time I do freelance work.

Do you write full time? If not, do you hope to do so one day?

I do write full time, this is my passion what I want to do my whole life. I can’t picture myself doing anything else.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

During my teen years, I was going through a rough time and writing helped relax me. By writing I escaped to my own fantasy world. I loved writing so much that by the time I graduated high school I realized I wanted to be a writer. After graduating from Old Dominion University I started writing my first book Going Home Again which was released in February 2010.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

The writing business is hard. This time around it was especially tough since I went with self-publishing and had to do everything myself. You have to edit the manuscript, create a cover, set the sales channels, plus you have to do all the promotion yourself. Sure it’s hard, but if you’re really committed to writing, then you have to deal with the business aspects.

Do you have any advice for other writers seeking to get published for the first time?

The most important advice is don’t give up. Eventually you’re going to find the right publisher for your book and when it happens there’s no greater feeling in the world.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

S. L. Danielson is an author of male/male romantic/erotic fiction. Her newest work Life After Math is available from Silver Publishing.

What is the name of your latest book?

Life After Math

And how did you come up with the title?

The 1st book was named Love by the Numbers, and since it’s about a math tutor; it fit the couple and the theme.

What is this book about?

This book is a sequel and follows two college students named Scott and Jared. They are a newly-committed couple who are facing the new challenges that school will bring, such as wanna-be boyfriends, and lost time together.

And what genre is this book in?

It could be considered YA (Young adult) since they are 18 at the outset, but they finish at age 22; so it is two adults; which makes it applicable to the erotica division.

Who is/are the main characters? The two main characters are Scott Williams and Jared Adamson.

And why did you choose them? I chose them because they were the main characters from the first book.What is the coolest or best part about your book? (Any Favorite scenes, the world-building etc…)

Hmmm…that’s a toughie! Overall, I love the drama, so I love it whenever there’s a twist or turn and a huge fight or a big makeup scene….this book has all of those!

Do you have a favorite character in the book? If so, why?

Scott is definitely my favorite. He’s the outcast as he was in the first book, but has fit in a bit more since he began dating Jared. He’s the underdog; and I consider myself to be like he was; shy, unassuming, but dying on the inside for attention.

Is this book part of a series?

Yes, the 2nd. If so? What can we expect in future books?

I have toyed with the thought of doing a third book to cover this duo to the very end. (hint, there might be wedding bells)…or will there?

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

I’d say no; I took my time with it and had it go through betas and got lots of feedback. I’m happy with the finished product.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

I learned it was easy to write these two; they are instilled so well in my mind.

Do you have a publisher?

Yes, Silver.

And if so, why did you choose them?

They took me on as one of their first indie self-pubbed authors and listed my books. Now, since they are full-service, I submitted it to them first. I was so thrilled the day they accepted!If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

Hmmm…I don’t have a lot of mentors (except for school). I’d say my inspirations come from my good friend Julie, and from my beta readers Yolanda and Linda. They help me pick the story apart and see it from a reader’s perspective. That’s invaluable!

What books are you reading now?

In the next few days I’ll be starting books submitted for judging in a contest! I’m super excited about being able to be a voice in that process.

What are the current writing projects that you are working on?

Currently, I have One in beta stage, another under consideration, and three more on the fire. I always have something cooking.

Do you write full time?

No, but I wish I could.

If not, do you hope to do so one day?

Definitely! Dream come true!

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

From the time I was a very young girl; I did all kinds of things, but writing is the only thing that ever ‘stuck’. Even my family knew it from the outset. My brother predicted I’d be an author years ago.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Finding the time to do it and the proper inspiration. Right now I live in less than ideal surroundings; and hope to one day have a private, silent office where I can think and create on a whim.

Do you have any advice for other writers seeking to get published for the first time?

Yes…first and foremost, find a good beta reader! This could be a friend, a mentor, someone whom can look at your tale and go through it for inconsistencies, ask questions, point out errors, etc. Not an editor; but better.

Also, be patient!!! I’ve had to learn this the hard way. Waiting for an answer is killer to me; I’ve had to make myself work on or think of other things while waiting.

Also, that publisher you submit to…check them out first! Get recommendations from fellow authors or Preditors and Editors’s site. I got bitten on this one; again, lesson learned. I was lucky to have found and friended Silver’s CEO and with my other publisher was a recommendation from a friend. I’ve had great experiences with both…so it pays to do your research!

Monday, April 18, 2011

Lila Munro is an author of contemporary erotic romance encompassing everything from the sensual to BDSM and menage. Her newest work 'Identity Crisis' is available from Rebel Ink Press.

What is the name of your latest book? And how did you come up with the title?

My latest creation available is Identity Crisis. The title came about because one of the heroes, Chad Dearborn, literally struggles with who he is and what he wants from his relationship with his wife, Tori.

What is this book about? And what genre is this book in?

Identity Crisis is a contemporary erotic romance with BDSM and ménage elements. I think the blurb does it justice in telling what it’s about:

Someone once said you never truly know a person, Chad Dearborn was raised with a silver spoon in his mouth. He was given everything a person could want and more, country clubs were his daycares and Paris and London his playgrounds. Heir to Dearborn Inc., Chad stands to inherit a veritable fortune. But the problem is his parents want to gift him the perfect wife to go with it. A woman in the form of a molded, plastic, jet set dolly. Certainly not Chad’s idea of an ideal mate. He wants a woman that can hold her own, in and out of the bedroom. Who knew he’d find her in one of Portland’s hottest leather clubs? Chad was fascinated by what went on there, but something just wouldn’t let him cross that line.

until you sleep with them.

Country clubs? Europe? The closest Tori Myers ever came to those things were the covers of magazines. With an absent father, a less than attentive mother and nowhere to go, Tori finds herself drawn to an alternative lifestyle at the tender age of eighteen. Vertigo is a treasure chest of Dom’s willing to give her anything she wants. But when Chad Dearborn walks through the door, Tori figures out sometimes what your heart wants isn’t necessarily what your body is willing to compromise to have.

Or do you?

The thing that just wouldn’t let Chad cross the line with his sexuality has come home to roost. And as a result, he's faced with a huge decision. Accept who he is and what he wants. Or continue to fight the biggest identity crisis of his life.

Who is/are the main characters? And why did you choose them?

The main players in Identity Crisis are Chad Dearborn, Tori Dearborn and Ren Taylor. I’m not so sure I chose them so much as they chose me to tell their story. I was doing research for book two in another series I am writing and it occurred to me I was quite intrigued by the lifestyle that Chad, Tori and Ren live, and the sociology major in me itched to learn more. The more I researched the louder Chad spoke to me. He was the first character to make an appearance, followed by his wife Tori and finally Ren, who was a surprise really. I didn’t know Ren was invited until he showed up with his party invitation in hand.

What is the coolest or best part about your book?

I do have a favorite scene in the book in which I really got to showcase all the things I learned about the lifestyle during my research. The scene is one in which Tori accepts Ren as part of her and Chad’s relationship on a permanent basis and Ren marks her. I was really able to highlight the dichotomy of the Dom/sub relationship and all its complexities in a manner of paragraphs. I’d share the scene here, but it has such a heat level I’m fear it may be inappropriate to share with a mixed audience.

Do you have a favorite character in the book? If so, why?

I love all three of my characters for different reasons. I love that Chad struggles with who he is and what he wants but still tries to account for Tori’s feelings and needs. Tori is so down to earth and although she’s been give the world on a silver platter she never forgets where she came from, and, well, Ren…he just does it for me. The man oozes Dom and masculinity and tempers it with a healthy dose of understanding and compassion.

Is this book part of a series? If so? What can we expect in future books?

Yes, Identity Crisis in book one in this series. Book two, True Identity is slated to release in June with Master Steph and Jill’s story between the covers, and the third installment is due out this fall.

If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

In every book I write in looking back I find things I would have changed or expounded upon. In this particular work, I was just learning the ins and outs of how this lifestyle works and I realize now that some of Tori’s vocabulary may be a bit off, but I’ve pinpointed that now and know to do differently in the next book.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?

I learned that I have a submissive personality and am a pleaser. I’d always suspected as much, but my research confirmed it.

Do you have a publisher? And if so, why did you choose them?

At present I am contracting for several works through Rebel Ink Press and am very happy there. I chose them because they work on the philosophy of quality is more important than quantity and they are intent to raise the bar on quality in e-publishing. They give their writers top-notch service through a full staff that include full time editors, an in house graphic arts department and they have a marketing and public relations staff to help with promotion.

If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

There are so many I’m not sure I could choose just one. Sparks, Banks, Sinclair…the list goes on.

What books are you reading now?

I try to read what I write. Lately I’ve been indulging in a lot of Maya and Cherise Sinclair, but I’ve also taken a liking to m/m and have read a lot of Andrew Grey lately. For anyone that has a hard time reading m/m because of lack of story line Andrew will not disappoint. His stories have a story and not just a lot of poorly written sex.

What are the current writing projects that you are working on?

Currently I have works in progress on four separate series. I’m working on book two of the Identity series, book two of the Delaney Brothers series, book two of the Force Recon series—an anthology project with three other writers, and I’m working on a series called The Sergeants of Echo Company. I’ve got a full plate and enough to last well into next year.

Do you write full time?

Fortunately my husband provides well for me and with my nest empty I can indeed devote all my time to writing.

Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

I’ve had an interest in making up stories well before I could even read. Many people have read my account of how Santa brought a toy typewriter one year for Christmas and I wore it out. In fact, I just finished a blog post about how I am sure my muse new which genre we would gravitate to even then. Funny how those little love notes in second grade can be the beginning of epic love stories.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

I am my worst critic. My greatest challenge is living up to my own expectations which I feel I never do. I’m a stickler for detail and realism, so I’d say making sure I get it right is a struggle at times.

Do you have any advice for other writers seeking to get published for the first time?

Do your research. Check out potential publishers thoroughly before committing to any of them. I went so far as to check with the BBB to make sure potential publishers didn’t have any pending legal actions against them. Many small presses won’t make it past their first three years and legal problems attribute to that. Make sure their philosophy matches your own and their goals mirror yours. Ask other people that write for them about their experiences. Most of them are more than willing to tell you how they feel and if they’ve had a good experience or not.

Bio:

Lila Munro is a writer of contemporary romance currently residing on the coast of North Carolina. She is a military wife and takes much of her inspiration for her heroes from the marines she’s lived around for the past fourteen years. Coining the term realmantica, she strives to produce quality romance in a realistic setting. When she’s not writing, she enjoys reading everything she can get her hands on, trips to the museum and aquarium, taking field research trips, and soaking up the sun on the nearby beaches. Her works include The Executive Officer’s Wife, Bound By Trust, All I Want for Christmas is Redemption, Destiny’s Fire, A Slower Lower Love, Salvation, Force Recon: Beacon Bayou, and Identity Crisis. Currently she’s working on sequels to several series to be released throughout 2010-2011. Ms. Munro always works as the Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Rebel Ink Press. She loves to hear from her readers and can be contacted via her websites:

http://lilamunro.weebly.com , her joint effort website http://www.wickedmuses.blogspot.com or through Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Lila_Munro You can also contact her via email at lilasromance@gmail.com For more information about Rebel Ink Press please visit their website at www.rebelinkpress.com

Please enjoy an excerpt from Identity Crisis which can be purchased at: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-identitycrisis-521393-146.html

An electric hum sizzled across Tori Dearborn’s sun kissed skin, setting the tiny hairs on her arms and on the back of her neck on edge as she stared at the outfit hanging over the closet door in her bedroom. It was quite a number. A set of red leather chaps accompanied a red leather corset and matching g-string. Tori walked over and buried her face in the chaps, inhaling deeply, and a slow, delicious warmth enveloped her sending a dull ache straight to the core of her womb. Leather. New leather. God how that smell turned her on.

Tori reluctantly pulled her face away from the chaps long enough to notice the accessories set upon her satin covered pillow along with an envelope. She walked over and picked up the red leather handcuffs that lay there. Her fingers glided over the smooth edges of the restraints wishing her husband was home right this minute to try them out on her. But Chad was away on business. It was the first time in their five year marriage he would miss their anniversary, but clearly by the gifts he’d left behind this morning before leaving, he was anticipating quite a homecoming to make up for it.

Never in her wildest imagination would Tori have ever thought to marry someone like Chad Dearborn. Not only was he a successful VP at a top notch land development firm, he’d had the good fortune of growing up in the lap of luxury. He’d enjoyed the best private education money could buy and all the amenities to go along with it. Private country club memberships, private music lessons from some of the world’s elite musicians, and European vacations. But none of those things compared to the one thing about Chad that had almost kept Tori from marrying him. Chad was the most conservative and restrained man she’d ever known. When he’d discovered her lifestyle choices Chad was less than thrilled, but he professed a love so deep he agreed to try to somehow make their relationship work through some creative compromises.

For three hundred sixty two days a year, Tori would be the model conservative wife. She would dress appropriately for the country club life, mingle in all the right circles, and attend all the necessary functions. That wasn’t to say that the lifestyle was completely absent those three hundred sixty two days. In the privacy of their own home, Tori sat at Chad’s feet and he fed her. He put her on a pedestal and she wanted for nothing. And in the bedroom he would occasionally pull out a silk scarf and blindfold her. But the full on, leather and bondage games that Tori thrived on were restricted to special occasions. On those three days of the year, Christmas Eve, Tori’s birthday, and her and Chad’s anniversary, Tori was allowed to be the leather loving submissive that Chad had found in a less than conservative club one night while he was out rebelling against his parents desires for him to marry a stick figure Barbie from the jet set.

It wasn’t love at first sight by any means. In fact, Tori resisted him with sass and even tried to turn him off.

“You mean Richie Rich?” Tori laughed. She’d noticed him when he first walked into Vertigo. “I don’t think he realizes he’s not in Kansas anymore.”

The man J.C. referred to sat at the end of the long stainless steel bar in his faded Lucky low slung jeans and indigo ED Hardy tee shirt. He stuck out like a sore thumb as everyone around him was wearing black or red and most of the attire was leather. Tori could plainly tell he didn’t belong in Vertigo, but he didn’t seem daunted by the fact that he was an anomaly and made himself at home on the black leather clad stool with the big silver rivets all around the edges. Completely oblivious to anyone else, he nursed a tumbler of whiskey and steadily stared at Tori.

“Maybe you should take him on the tornado tour.” J.C. laughed cynically and twirled her flogger around her wrist.

“I don’t think he’s my type, J.C. Maybe you should be the one to break him in…not so gently. He looks like a sub to me. He’s more your type.”

J.C. alit from her stool and left Tori’s side. She walked down the bar and stopped beside the man that didn’t belong. After a few words were exchanged J.C. came back and once again took up residence on the stool next to Tori.

“Well, Madame? Any luck?” Tori asked and took another sip of her Royal Flush.

“Whatever. He’s just another rich boy out to sow his wild oats before settling down with whichever playmate of the year mommy and daddy have picked out for him.” Tori hopped off her stool. “However, he’s the worst dressed one I’ve ever seen in here. Most of them at least try to fit in for their one night of glory.”

Tori’s eyes met the man’s in a steady gaze and as she maintained that contact, she walked across the dance floor to a Master named Rio. Rio wasn’t a Master by accident. He could take a submissive where he or she wanted to go so well, they often times never realized the trip was so painful. Never breaking eye contact with the man on the stool, Tori allowed Rio to claim her for the night. Rio ran his big hand down the thin silver chain that hung on his belt, took the clasp at the end and attached it to the open lock collar Tori wore around her neck. She shot the man a taunting smile and locked her bright blue eyes on his rich chocolate ones as Rio led her away to a private room.

Thursday, April 14, 2011

Dana Davis is an author of paranormal, fantasy, and science fiction. Her newest work Desert Magick: Day of the Dead (Book 3) is available from SynergEbooks Publishing.

What is the name of your latest book? And how did you come up with the title?

Hi, Clare. Thank you for having me back. My latest book is Desert Magick: Day of the Dead (Book 3). The title of the series is Desert Magick because the books take place in the Arizona desert. The subtitle Day of the Dead refers to the Mexican holiday, as well as the plot of this particular book.

What is this book about? And what genre is this book in?

Day of the Dead is the third book in a bestselling paranormal/urban fantasy series. But there are a lot of mystery and suspense elements in it, too. The series takes place in the modern Metro-Phoenix area of Arizona and incorporates Irish, Celtic, Greek, and Native mythologies. When you mention paranormal, a lot of readers immediately think of werewolves and vampires. While I’m a fan of those types of characters, this series focuses on witches, magick, ghosts, mediums, telepaths, and the like. I like the intangible and readers will see that in this series.

How long have you been writing in this genre?

I’ve been making up fantasy stories since I was a kid, even before I could write. I worked in the entertainment business for many years so my writing was focused on stage adaptations and scripts. Even then, I gravitated toward children’s fairytales. When I first started writing for publication, I began with fantasy and science fiction stories, because those are my favorite genres. But I also love ghost stories and various types of mythology.

So, about 4 years ago, I decided to try my hand at paranormal fantasy, which combines genres. I absolutely love it! I’m also a paranormal investigator and the family genealogist, so I tend to use real-life incidents, family lore, and stories that others have told me. I change them up, of course. This is fantasy after all. But most of the ghostly aspects in the books were sparked to life in some way from my personal experiences.

Who is/are the main characters? And why did you choose them?

Characters choose me, not the other way around. No matter how hard I try, if a character wants to be in the story, I have to accommodate. Otherwise, it just doesn’t work. Daisy Hammel-Kavanaugh and Bridgette McDougal both chose me. In fact, Bridgette demanded I put her in the book to help her cousin. <grin>

Daisy is the main character throughout the Desert Magick series. Bridgette, a prominent figure in the books, gets part of her story told in Day of the Dead. Noah Kavanaugh, Daisy’s husband, is an increasingly important character. As well as Scarlet Mendoza, a medium and cousin by marriage to Daisy and Bridgette.

In the second book, Dream Catcher, I focused on Zoey Vega, a younger cousin to Daisy and Bridgette. Zoey plays a vital part in both the paranormal and mortal worlds and makes appearances throughout the rest of the series. Not to sound morbid, but the dead play important roles, too.

Where did the idea for your book come from?

Once I decided to try my hand at paranormal fantasy, I pondered where to begin, but I knew I didn’t want to go the vampire and werewolf route. One day, as I was sitting at my computer working on another book, Daisy popped up. She announced that she was a witch living in Arizona, where I live now, and that she was having problems with what she suspected was an evil ghost. Her story developed from there.

In your opinion, what makes a good story?

For me personally, I like character driven stories with suspense and humor. I tend to gravitate toward stories with strong female characters. As a sci-fi/fantasy fan, I read the old stuff from the 1930s through the 1960s, but a lot of those seemed to be plot-driven. I love the science and the ideas they present but sometimes the characters are secondary or just don’t appeal to me. Not to mention women are pretty much nonexistent in those books, since the majority of writers back then were male.

Can you give us a quick taste of what’s inside?

After struggling with ghostly visits and several paranormal nasties the past few months, Daisy Hammel-Kavanaugh wants nothing more than a normal life with her husband, Noah. But the Day of the Dead is more than just a holiday for this Arizona witch. Disturbing things are going on in the afterlife and Daisy is the focus.

As she helps her cousin hunt for a mysterious person who can control the dead, Bridgette grapples with guilt over a secret that’s haunted her for twenty-two years. A secret that could be related to Daisy’s current problem. But Daisy has a secret of her own. One that just might send her to an early grave.

Is this book a part of a series? And if so what can we look for in the future?

Yes, Day of the Dead is the third book in the Desert Magick series. Right now, I’m under contract for five books. I’m working on the fourth now. Readers can look forward to more magickal and ghostly adventures in the Arizona desert.

Do you have anything specific you would like to say to your readers?

For me, reading fiction means escapism and entertainment. So, I write what I like to read. I hope you all enjoy reading the adventures as much as I enjoy creating them. And right now, in honor of spring and my birthday month, my publisher is offering all of my eBooks for just $2.99 throughout the month of April, when purchased through their site. http://www.synergebooks.com/index.html

Monday, April 11, 2011

Rebel is the unruly child of four people who came together with a common interest--the love of books. Take two best friends--one who writes and one who reads, throw in a talented graphic designer and a marketing whiz and poof--Rebel was born. Our staff includes Art Department Manager, Carl J Franklin, Senior Editor, Sheri Knots, Marketing Director, Lila Munro, and we have two guest editors on call. It was simple really--our mission then, as it is now, is to bring new writers to the forefront and make it easier for artists to become published. Rebel is proud to say we're doing just that!

What do you look for in your submissions and your authors?

Rebel is looking for a captivating story from a writer that cares about the written word. Our editors love a strong plot and well developed characters. We accept short stories, novella length work, and full-length novels in all sub-genres of romance. We're proud to host a wide range of writers that run the gamut from retired military personnel to stay at home moms. Rebel has an open submissions policy and we are accepting manuscripts from both published and non-published authors.

Do you take unagented submissions?

Absolutely. In this day and age, the slush pile seems dead and the mid-list novelist a thing of the past. We're looking for writers who love what they do and who create great stories. In this industry, it can sometimes seem like the winner is the author who can write the best query letter, not necessarily the best story. We're looking for the story.

Do you take unsolicited submissions?

Absolutely!

Would you say that your company specializes in any particular genre?

Well, we love romance, and the basis of our business is built on that foundation, but we've added sci-fi, steam punk and a fair amount of paranormal recently so I'd say we're open to just about anything.

How would you describe your relationship with your authors especially during the editing process?

We stay in touch with our writers during every step process of publication. We are very determined to let them know they matter and they are a person not a number or an ISBN. The first thing we do is help writers craft a short blurb about their story so they can start marketing right away. We talk about cover concepts before we go to the graphics guru. We offer constructive comments and make suggestions during edits and provide our writers with finalized manuscripts in advance of their release dates. Our theory is it’s our job to nurture our writers and help them develop and grow to their full potential. And post release we don’t leave them out there to go it alone. Our marketing department helps them do the promotional things that ensure success, from seeking reviews to press releases to announcements to providing the tools to plan a successful blog tour.

What kind of product are you looking to deliver to your readers?

We want to deliver quality, entertaining reads to our readers that leave them wanting more. We think our track record speaks for itself. Since our opening in September 2010 we’ve put out twenty titles. Out of those twenty we’ve had six bestsellers, ten highest reading rated, and several of our titles have boasted top ten slots in their given categories at ARe.

What would you like for your readers to know about Rebel Ink Press?

Our writers are some of the best, most talented, down to earth people on the planet. They're real folks just like your next door neighbors. In addition, our staff are the same type of folks, and nothing pleases them more than seeing their writers succeed.

Are there any authors or books that you are excited about?

Everything in our lineup excites me. We've got so many terrific stories coming out this year. We’ve got some outstanding stand alones lined up, a few series in the works, and a few of our writers regularly ban together and come up with some awesome anthologies. All our authors excel in their given sub-genre and we’re proud to have them all aboard at Rebel.

And finally, where can we find you on the web?

Our home is www.rebelinkpress.com and we're on face book at Rebel Ink Press. You can find Rebel Ink Press authors through the website links to their individual sites and you can find their work for sale at Barnes and Noble.com (nook), All Romance ebooks.com, CoffeetimeRomance.com, Amazon.com (Kindle), www.BookStrand.com and coming soon--Smashwords and the iBook store (apple).

Thanks for hosting us today! We’re very happy to have been invited to share a bit about our press with your readers. We’d like to invite your readers to check out what’s coming soon from Rebel Ink Press.

Spring and Summer Releases:

Wicked Wager Among Friends by Cassandre Dayne:

Veronica Spelling was used to getting what she wanted with everything in her life except when it pertained to men. While she'd desired her best friend, Travis Hunter, for years, he was decidedly gay, had only been with a woman once and was in a casual relationship with their mutual friend, Jonathan. Masculine and perfect in every sense, Veronica's mouth watered for Travis. And while they'd admitted their kinky proclivities over long night chats and margaritas, neither Veronica or Travis had ever indulged their fantasies. Deciding to take matters into her own hands and kick up the heat, Veronica suggested a wicked wager on a game of pool one night. The prize? If she ended up winning, she would receive her wish and get to sleep with Travis. But if he won, she had to become his slave for twenty-four hours. As three kindred souls begin experimenting and enjoying a new life together, it's certain everyone is set to learn a thing or two about the art of submission and true love in the process. But the question remains, in the end, can they each go back to being just friends?

Between 3 by JL Oiler:

When Celeste Drain attempted to make a break from an abusive relationship, she never dreamed she'd fall into an erotic ménage with two extremely hot strangers. Their one-night stand was the beginning of her new life, a life of self-reliance and inner strength. Now six months later, Celeste has a steady job at the same bar where she met her lovers, a home, and she's building a new existence.

Justin and Craig are part of the guard force known as the Keepers, men charged with protecting the human topside world from the violent monsters that live behind one of the gates to hell deep beneath Death Valley. Given little time topside to relax, Justin and Craig stumble into a one-night stand with a beautiful woman who challenges them not only physically, but also with her quick wit and intelligence. When a large breakout at the gate allows a group of vile Adze to escape to the topside world, Justin and Craig are mortified to discover the woman they thought was just a one-night stand may be a whole lot more and worse, she's smack dab in the middle of what might just become hell on earth.

A Slower Lower Life by Lila Munro:

When two worlds collide,

Being the oldest of eight has never been easy for Kurt Delaney, but the pressures he’s put on himself far exceed any anyone else inflicts on him. Known as the family stick in the mud, Kurt’s pushing forty and with the heirship to the family farm hanging in the balance, he finds his hopes of a married life and children swirling down the drain. Honor and family are everything to him and a mate that doesn’t hold those things as dear as he does is unacceptable.

Deidre Maloney is a city born and bred girl. In the absence of her botanist parents, she was raised by a nanny and knows nothing of a family’s love or how being married works. Commitment isn’t a word in her vocabulary. Only concerned with finding a new job and a fling, she embarks on a trip from Chicago to Seaford, Delaware to see her best friend Cait marry her high school sweetheart. Being attracted to a Delaney brother wasn’t on her carefully planned itinerary.

the aftermath is all that matters…

With so many differences between him and Deidre, Kurt can’t believe he’s let himself fall for her. She’s looking for a prime rib guy and he knows he’s just skirt steak. When they’re in close proximity, however, something undeniably amazing happens. How does he convince her that family isn’t something to fear and love doesn’t hurt? How does Kurt show Deidre that a slower, lower life is what she’s been looking for all along?

Another Chance by Katie Alexander and Kelli Lee Mosley:

Megan Mason had a fabulous family, a wonderful husband, amazing friends, a great job and a beautiful home. All she needed was a baby to make her life complete. Little did she know, however, that asking her husband for a child would end her marriage. Suffering the ultimate betrayal, Megan returns to her childhood home to rebuild her life.

Grayson Burke had it all. His family’s construction company was financially sound business was booming. He loved his job and better yet, he worked with two of his best friends. To an outsider looking in, Grayson's life probably seemed perfect. But in reality, Grayson's dream woman wasn't only married to someone else, she was his buddies little sister which meant she was untouchable in every sense of the word.

When Grayson learns that Megan is headed home, everything in his world seems to flip upside down. There's no way he could ever approach a woman whose life has been destroyed. Right? And besides, his friends would kill him. Wouldn't they?

True Identity by Lila Munro:

You have to leave the city of your comfort…

Jillian Stewart was as straight laced as they came. Or was she? After one man tearing her down to her very foundation, she’s set out on a path of self-discovery. Pursuing a Master’s degree in sociology, Jill’s determined to wrap her mind around the complexities of the BDSM world. Getting into a good doctorate program won’t be easy so she’s pulling out all the stops. After disregarding her professor’s warning against subjecting herself to the lifestyle, Jill finds she’s drawn to her tutor. But this isn’t her world. Is it?

and go into the wilderness of your intuition…

A career Marine Corps officer, Stephan Sachelles has always chosen to keep his lifestyle choices to himself. He avoids the underground house parties on the base to frequent a club miles from home in an effort to protect his privacy. Steph’s been a Master at Steele Image for years and he's enjoyed the company of many of the subs there with no intention of ever settling on just one. How would he make that work…it wasn’t like he could convert his base house into the dungeon of his dreams. Then Jill walks through the door. Steph’s intuition tells him there’s wild abandon inside her fighting for a chance at life. In the depths of her eyes, far behind the over analysis of everything she encounters, Steph sees the heart of a true submissive. But the resistance Jill puts up is driving Steph crazy. While she’s a good student, she just won't let go. Fighting his own internal battle, Steph finds he wants nothing more than to be the only Master to help her find her true identity.

Force Recon Somalia book 2 in the series by BethAnn Buehler, JA Lawson, JL Oiler and Lila Munro:

After surviving the vacation from hell in Beacon Bayou, the Force Recon team finds themselves one relationship, one fiancé, one child, and one marriage more than when they left Camp Lejeune. But before they have a chance to process how a few days so completely changed their lives, they’re called away to Somalia, a hot bed of pirate activity. Their mission--rescue an embedded female marine taken prisoner.

Being a female marine isn’t easy for Allison Blaise. Choosing a life that's all about proving herself worthy of being one of the few and the proud right alongside her male counterparts, Alli volunteers for every special assignment that comes down the pipeline. This time that "go-to" attitude has landed her a stay as a prisoner to a few unsavory Somali pirates. After watching her four man extraction team be virtually destroyed before her eyes, Alli finds herself inexplicably drawn to the team leader, Brogan Baker. But she also finds herself competing with the newest member of the team, Eric Ryan, for Brogan's affection.

Eric Ryan, AKA Chaos, has only been with the team a few weeks when he realizes he's got a major problem on his hands, his attraction to the boss. And while he's pretty certain Brogan bats for his team, the woman attached to Brogan's side every waking minute is making it pretty hard to find out. To make matters worse, Eric has to admit he's got the slightest bit of feeling for the woman as well.

With their team in a constant state of change and under duress, Aaron finds himself struggling to accept the notion that he's worth being loved and unable to impress his soon to be grandfather -in-law. Worse, he can’t shake the feeling that he has to find some way to step up and take care of Scarlet in a manner she’s accustomed to or he's going to lose her. The thought of that school is nearly enough to choke him. But Aaron’s not the only one with problems. Gabe thought his life was under control until Ros reveals yet another secret, one he’s so distracted by he almost doesn’t survive the trip home from Somalia. A secret Ros may not survive either.

Just when they thought they were strong enough to make it through anything, the Force Recon team is once again faced with enough to either make them or break them.